Updated December 2024
Although 2024 was a challenging year in the transportation industry, as we faced a difficult market and the rising prices of goods, there are brighter days ahead in the world of trucking! In 2025, consumer demand is expected to stay steady, which will result in a continuous need to fill trucking jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected 240,300 trucking job openings in 2025 – making this the perfect year to start a new career in the trucking industry!
An Industry That Plans Ahead
As the market continues to shift, carriers across the nation are forming proactive growth and recovery plans for the coming year. Large trucking companies, despite facing some difficult regulations, are determined to make 2025 a more successful year for their drivers and primary stakeholders. Many trucking carriers are offering additional perks like sign-on bonuses and tuition reimbursement programs, which are great incentives for aspiring Class A CDL drivers.
Technology Advancements In and Out of the Truck
The trucking industry is changing fast, and 2025 will bring some exciting new trends. One of the biggest changes is the growth of autonomous trucking. While we won’t see fully self-driving trucks everywhere just yet, technologies like adaptive cruise control and radar safety systems are becoming more common. These systems will help make roads safer, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce driver fatigue.
In addition, the demand for long-distance freight is expected to rise in 2025. As global supply chains grow, trucking companies will play a key role in moving goods from ports and airports to their final destinations. This will require more skilled drivers to handle longer hauls.
Another major shift in 2025 is the move towards electric and alternative-fuel trucks. With stricter regulations and growing interest in green technology, the number of electric trucks is expected to grow from 2,000 in 2019 to about 54,000 by 2025. These trucks will help reduce pollution and lower costs for trucking companies, making them an important part of the industry’s future.
Benefits of a Truck Driving Career
Truck drivers’ efforts have rightfully received more public attention, adding to the benefits expected for drivers in the near future. Drivers’ pay and benefits have steadily increased throughout 2024 and will continue into 2025. The starting average pay of truck drivers has risen to over $54,000 with benefits such as increased health care options, added time off, and retirement options.
The consumer market is constantly changing, but the trucking industry is cautiously optimistic about what lies ahead in the new year. Existing challenges are being balanced out with proactive solutions and advancing technology, making a career in trucking a great choice for your future!
Are you ready to join the trucking industry this year? Contact us to start your trucking career at United Truck Driving School!
